No iPhones For Villains - How Apple Is Watching Its Image In Movies

Apple 's iPhones have become a ubiquitous fixture in modern cinema, with the iconic devices frequently popping up in films and TV shows. Just as Mission: Impossible’s PowerMac or the G3 PowerBoo in You've Got Mail left a lasting impression on viewers, Apple 's subtle product placement has become a hallmark of the film industry. But have you ever noticed Apple's iPhones are rarely seen in the hands of villains in movies and TV shows? It's no accident but a result of a marketing strategy.

Movie villains are not allowed to use iPhones?

Knives Out director Rian Johnson revealed in a 2020 Vanity Fair interview that Apple has specific rules about its products in films and TV Shows. He explained that Apple allows the use of iPhones in movies but has a crucial restriction - ‘Bad guy can’t use iPhones on-screen.’ Star Wars: The Last Jedi creator even joked that this policy frustrates filmmakers who want to keep their villains' identities a mystery.

Although Apple has never officially stated that villains cannot use iPhones, its guidelines do require that their products be depicted in positive light. The company also asks that any mention of Apple avoid suggesting endorsement or sponsorship.

Apple has maintained its brand image and carefully controls how its products are featured in films and television to portray a positive mirror. In another incident, a 2002 Wired article noted that in the TV series 24, all the heroes used Macs, while the villains used Windows PCs.

Apple launches iPhone 16 and its versions

Apple will host its eagerly awaited It's Glowtime event tonight. It started at 10:30 PM IST at the Steve Jobs Theatre in California. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will offer new features, including a higher framerate 4K video recording, an upgraded spatial photos mode, and better noise reduction. 

These enhancements are likely to make the iPhone 16 series a valuable asset for both everyday users and professional filmmakers.